ICYMI: Kansas Tuberculosis Outbreak Leaves Two Dead and Dozens Fighting Infection
A deadly tuberculosis outbreak in Kansas City has killed two people and infected dozens as health officials scramble to prevent further devastation. đ #News #KansasCityKS #Kansas #Health
KANSAS CITY, KS – A deadly tuberculosis outbreak has swept through the Kansas City, Kansas, metro area, killing two people and leaving dozens infected. Health officials are scrambling to contain the crisis as new cases continue to emerge.
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) confirmed that the outbreak began in January 2024. Two deaths linked to the outbreak occurred last year, and the spread remains active. Officials have warned that more cases are likely as the bacteria continues to spread.
Dozens Infected, More Cases Feared
So far, at least 67 people have been diagnosed and treated for active tuberculosis, while 79 others have tested positive for latent infections. Latent TB means the bacteria is present but hasnât yet caused illness, although it could activate later.
Tuberculosis is a highly contagious disease, primarily affecting the lungs. It spreads through prolonged exposure to someone with an active infection, usually through coughing or speaking. While latent cases donât spread the disease, they can develop into active TB if untreated.
Health officials are emphasizing the importance of early treatment to prevent further spread. The state has been working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to track and manage the outbreak.
Free Testing and Treatment Offered
The exact cause of the outbreak hasnât been disclosed, but health workers are actively identifying potential contacts of infected individuals. Free TB testing is being provided to those potentially exposed. If someone tests positive, further evaluation will determine whether the infection is active or latent.
Patients diagnosed with TB are being treated through local health departments at no cost to the uninsured or those without sufficient coverage. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics administered over several months. Health department staff are ensuring patients complete their treatments to prevent complications or additional spread.
CDC Sends Team to Assist
The CDC has deployed four specialists to Kansas to assist with testing, contact tracing, and response coordination. With the outbreak ongoing, public health teams are racing to keep the situation under control.
Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about communication gaps at the national level. Federal health agencies have reportedly paused some public updates, leaving officials worried that crucial information may be delayed or lost.
Rising TB Cases Across the U.S.
The Kansas outbreak comes amid a nationwide increase in tuberculosis cases. In 2023, the CDC reported a jump from 8,320 cases in 2022 to 9,615 cases. This marked an increase in the infection rate from 2.5 to 2.9 cases per 100,000 people. Despite the rise, the U.S. still maintains one of the lowest TB rates globally.
Certain populations are at higher risk of contracting the disease, particularly those living or working in high-exposure settings like homeless shelters, correctional facilities, or healthcare environments. Those who travel frequently to countries where TB is common also face a heightened risk.
Global Impact and Prevention
Globally, tuberculosis remains a significant health crisis. Every year, around 10 million people fall ill with TB, and 1.5 million die, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The disease, despite being preventable and curable, holds its place as the worldâs deadliest infectious killer.
Preventative measures include screening, early treatment, and in some cases, vaccination. While the TB vaccine is not widely used in the U.S. due to low infection rates, it is commonly administered in other countries where the disease is widespread.
Those with weakened immune systemsâsuch as people living with HIV or chronic illnessesâare particularly vulnerable, as they are at a higher risk of developing active TB. Even individuals with latent infections face up to a 10% lifetime risk of becoming ill if not properly treated.
Health officials continue their efforts to control the Kansas outbreak, emphasizing that completing treatment is critical to stopping the spread and preventing future fatalities.
RELATED TOPICS: Health and Wellness | Kansas | Missouri
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